What material is sulfuric acid likely stored in?

Sulfuric acid is a highly corrosive and strong mineral acid, which means that it requires specific materials for safe storage. Polyethylene drums are ideal for storing sulfuric acid because they offer excellent chemical resistance. Polyethylene is not reactive with sulfuric acid, which protects both the integrity of the storage container and the safety of the environment around it.

Storing sulfuric acid in a wooden barrel would not be appropriate, as the acid could corrode or react with the wood, leading to leakage or degradation of the containment. Steel drums, while often used for various chemicals, might also corrode in the presence of sulfuric acid, particularly if the concentration of the acid is high or if there are any impurities. Glass containers are generally suitable for small quantities of sulfuric acid, but they are prone to breakage and not practical for large-scale storage. Therefore, using polyethylene drums provides the best combination of safety and compatibility for storing sulfuric acid.